It started off will my trainer bob getting us out of Missoula. He wanted to get through the mountains before I took over. When I jumped in, it seems all I hit was mountains. Only a few 6% grades but overall wasn't bad. Did a full day, first time doing so since being out on the road. I felt pretty good.

Yesterday same thing, I took over, and drove my clock up. When I took my 30 min break in Indiana, it started to storm... I was like it'll pass by. Well I get going and it's pouring, can't see much, so I hit my flashers and slowed down. Bob was sleeping, I almost had the urge to wake him up but I just said he needs his sleep. So I just took my time and finally made it out of that mess.

I don't push it, I'll do 58 to 60 mph... Yes I'm one of those slow ones out there. 😂 But I'm doing it for a fuel bonus and I'm not stressing, so it's all good. But other than that. The first load was a little over 2300 miles and it has been successful. Had a few moments of hate for drivers in Chicago. And the sketchy moment in the weather but, as long as you take your time and don't rush it, you can do it safe! So learning a lot out here I'm sure I'll run into some more things that will give me some good experience.

Are you up on I-80? If you keep heading up towards 90 we will pass each other. I'm headed west to Denver! Shut down in NY for the night to get some hours back then boogie woogie across 80 the next 2 1/2 days!

We are staying in jersey for the night. Not sure where the next load will take us. But if you see a freightshaker jp0111. I'm sure we will be heading back west.

Are you up on I-80? If you keep heading up towards 90 we will pass each other. I'm headed west to Denver! Shut down in NY for the night to get some hours back then boogie woogie across 80 the next 2 1/2 days!

Thank you! I'm okay with the few commenters, but if people do read it and get something from it then I'm happy. This is all new for me so jumping in and sharing this experience since I couldn't find much on Jim Palmer. But again thanks for the kind words. Appreciate it!

Aaron I have read your journal from the beginning. Your progress is notable and serves as a positive example for others to follow.

Although you may only get a smattering of comments, trust me when I say this you have hundreds of readers who appreciate your efforts in documenting the experience.

Yesterday was a pretty decent day. We got loaded in jersey which was heading to Ohio. He started the day then I look over and drove 9 hours to get it here. Pretty smooth ride minus all the construction, which already makes the lanes narrow then you have other trucks passing.... So I just slow down a little more and let them go zooming on by.

It's always funny when the gps says steep down grade ahead. Then I'm in it and wondering why it's not steep. I spent to much time out west dealing with those mountains that I've seen worse. I know there probably is bigger ones than the ones I hit, but at least I have a little experience in it and I'm happy for that.

When we arrived we dropped the trailer, headed to the shipping office and get everything squared away. They have no empties tho. We were taking a 10 hour break anyways so it's fine, we were hoping by morning we might get on but still nothing. Out next load picks up at 10 and it's only 10 mins away... 😑 I guess we will see how this goes.

Other than that, I should be home this weekend. Get a little time with the wife and just relax. I know it hasn't been. Awhile but from leaving July 8th till now, I wouldn't mind a few days just to stop and slow it down. But one thing for sure when we hit the road again, I'm sure itll be all hustle to knock out as many miles as possible. So I can't wait for that. Anyways, I'll update again later on, take care and always, be safe everyone.

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